2.5 Hours Whale Watching On A 41 Super-Raft

Whale watching is a thrilling and educational experience that allows visitors to witness the majestic movements of these aquatic giants up close. Aboard a 41-foot super-raft, travelers embark on a 2.5-hour adventure through Hawaii’s stunning waters, where they’ll have the chance to observe humpback whales breaching, spouting, and interacting with their calves. With knowledgeable naturalists on board to provide insights, and complimentary snacks and beverages to enjoy, this intimate tour promises an unforgettable encounter with one of nature’s most captivating creatures. What secrets might these whales reveal during your voyage?

Key Points

• Experience a 2.5-hour whale watching excursion aboard a 41-foot super-raft for an up-close encounter with humpback whales.
• Observe whales breaching, slapping their tails, and interacting with their calves in their natural habitat.
• Enjoy a narrated tour by a knowledgeable naturalist, providing insights into the behavior and biology of these magnificent marine mammals.
• Depart from the Kailua Kona Pier, with free parking available nearby, for a convenient and scenic start to the adventure.
• Indulge in snacks and beverages while taking in the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings during the tour.

Tour Overview and Details

The tour is a 2.5-hour whale watching experience on the Big Island of Hawaii, accommodating a maximum of 24 travelers at a price starting from $129.73.

Confirmation is received at booking, and guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

The tour includes snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, reef-safe sunscreen, and a knowledgeable naturalist on board.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or guests with serious medical conditions.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and children under five aren’t allowed due to safety concerns.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Guests must provide their own transportation to the meeting point at the Kailua Kona Pier, located at 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

Free parking is available at the nearby Ilima Court Shopping Center, just one block from the pier.

All cruises board 30 minutes prior to departure. This makes it easy for guests to arrive on time and board the vessel without any hassle.

The convenient location and ample parking ensure a smooth start to the whale watching adventure. Guests can relax and enjoy the scenic drive to the pier, knowing they’re well-prepared for the upcoming experience.

Inclusions and Amenities

This whale watching tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.

Snacks, bottled water, and soft drinks are provided for guests, ensuring they stay refreshed throughout the adventure.

Plus, the tour offers reef-safe sunscreen, allowing participants to protect their skin while enjoying the sunny Hawaiian weather.

Notably, a knowledgeable naturalist is on board to share insights about the local marine life and ecosystems.

The gratuities for this tour are also included in the price, so guests can relax and fully enjoy the whale watching experience without worrying about additional costs.

These inclusions contribute to making this a well-rounded and comfortable excursion for all participants.

Health and Safety Restrictions

Ensuring the well-being and safety of all participants, this whale watching tour has several health and safety restrictions in place.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as guests must be agile enough to board the vessel.

Plus, children five years and younger aren’t allowed due to safety concerns. These restrictions are in place to prioritize the comfort and security of the tour group while ensuring a safe and enjoyable whale watching experience.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

With a total of 9 reviews, the whale watching tour has an average rating of 4.0, indicating mostly positive customer feedback.

Passengers have praised the knowledgeable and enthusiastic crew, particularly the naturalist Brittany, for enhancing the overall experience.

However, some criticism has emerged regarding the mandated 100-yard distance from the whales, which has allegedly impacted the visibility during the tour.

Plus, a few guests have expressed concerns about tour cancellations and a lack of communication from the tour operator, Body Glove, regarding any changes.

The tour host has acknowledged the feedback and reiterated their commitment to ensuring whale safety during the excursions.

Whale Watching Highlights

Guests aboard the super-raft can expect to witness the majestic movements of humpback whales as they breach and spout during their annual migration to the warm Hawaiian waters. The vessel’s unique design and size allow for incredible, up-close experiences with these impressive creatures.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Seeing the whales’ powerful tails slap the surface as they dive back into the depths.

2. Observing mothers and their calves playing and resting together.

3. Listening to the whales’ haunting, melodic songs.

4. Spotting other marine life, like sea turtles and dolphins, alongside the whales.

The naturalist on board provides fascinating insights, enhancing the overall whale watching adventure.

Tour Operator Background

Body Glove Cruises, the tour operator, has been offering whale watching excursions on the Big Island for over a decade, drawing on their extensive experience in the local marine environment.

The company’s team of naturalists, like Brittany, provide guests with expert insights into the humpback whales and other marine life encountered during the tours.

While some customers have expressed concerns about the mandatory 100-yard viewing distance, Body Glove remains committed to responsible whale watching practices that prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the whales.

The company has also acknowledged feedback regarding tour cancellations and communication, demonstrating a willingness to address any issues and continually improve the customer experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can easily book the whale watching tour online, with the option to receive immediate confirmation upon successful reservation. The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. This provides ample time for travelers to adjust their plans if needed while ensuring Body Glove Cruises can maintain responsible operations.

Key highlights of the booking and cancellation policy include:

1. Online booking with instant confirmation

2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

3. Full refund for canceled bookings

4. Flexibility for guests to change travel plans

This policy reflects Body Glove Cruises’ commitment to customer satisfaction and responsible tourism practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time of Day Is the Whale Watching Tour?

The whale watching tour runs for 2.5 hours, with guests required to board 30 minutes prior to departure. The tour operates at various times throughout the day, with the specific departure time dependent on the tour provider’s schedule.

How Long Is the Boat Ride to the Whale Watching Site?

The whale watching tour has a 2.5-hour duration. Guests must provide their own transportation to the meeting point at Kailua Kona Pier, where they will board the boat 30 minutes prior to departure to the whale watching site.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour also provides bottled water, soft drinks, and reef-safe sunscreen for all passengers.

Are Cameras and Other Photography Equipment Allowed?

Yes, cameras and photography equipment are allowed on the tour. The tour operator encourages guests to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife they encounter. However, guests are asked to maintain a respectful distance from the whales during observation.

What Is the Dress Code for the Whale Watching Tour?

The dress code is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes, as the tour involves boarding a boat and potentially encountering ocean conditions. Swimwear is not required but may be suitable for some activities.

Recap

This 2.5-hour whale watching tour aboard Body Glove Cruises’ 41-foot super-raft offers an intimate, up-close encounter with majestic humpback whales.

Passengers can expect stunning views, knowledgeable naturalist commentary, and complimentary snacks and beverages.

With a maximum capacity of 24, this adventure ensures lasting memories of Hawaii’s remarkable marine life.